Women's Dental Health Part 1: Child Growth & Development

March 23, 2016
By
Dr. Julio

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There are some distinct differences between men & women when evaluating
their dental health. These differences start early on in development.
Girls tend to mature faster than boys. They reach puberty before boys
& their bones generally finish developing sooner too[i].

To prevent asymmetrical growth from affecting a patients profile. It is
recommended that all children have a consultation with an orthodontist
by age 7. This is especially critical for girls who will develop faster.
Thus, the window of opportunity to positively affect facial growth is limited.

Between the ages of 7-12 dentists have the ability to positively affect
facial growth with the use of functional appliances.[ii] These intraoral
appliances help expand narrow, undeveloped bones. There are many different
types; but, the most common are expansion appliances. These appliances
are small, removable acrylic devices with a midline screw that is opened
2-5 times per week to help expand upper and lower jaws. They are placed
against the palate or under the tongue against the teeth & help widen
these areas allowing more room for the permanent teeth to erupt.

It is a common misconception that parents should wait until kids get all
their permanent teeth before having an orthodontic consultation. By age
11-13, when most kids’ permanent teeth erupt, the options to correct
underdeveloped bones are very limited. As some girls reach puberty as
early as 13, it is imperative to start orthodontic treatment early when
indicated.

Puberty brings a whole new set of challenges due to the surge in hormones
which happen at their age. This surge in hormones will affect the health
of the gums & teeth. The effects of this will be covered in part 2
of our story – Oral health changes during puberty. Stay tuned…

The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as medical advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, a doctor-patient relationship.